Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque met with SpaceX’s Starlink executives in Hawthorne, California to address high spectrum fees, outdated telecom policies and import/export barriers delaying satellite deployment in the Philippines.
The DTI and SpaceX officials discussed how the US company could contribute to the development of the Philippines’ aerospace and satellite technology sector.
“By working closely with regulatory agencies and industry leaders like Starlink, we aim to create policies that encourage digital infrastructure development while ensuring fair competition and consumer protection,” Roque said.
One of the primary concerns raised was the lack of clear guidelines for establishing and operating ground gateway stations, which are essential for improving nationwide connectivity.
SpaceX also highlighted the need for more streamlined regulatory approvals to accelerate the adoption of satellite broadband, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
The discussion also touched on excessive licensing costs and the bureaucratic hurdles that make it difficult for new aerospace and satellite players to enter the Philippine market.
SpaceX’s expertise in satellite technology and its planned infrastructure investments in the Philippines could serve as a catalyst for modernizing regulatory frameworks and expanding high-speed internet access, the DTI said.
Roque also held discussions with Boeing Satellite Systems Inc. executives in El Segundo, California.
Boeing has been a longstanding partner of the Philippines in aviation and defense, and expanding this relationship into satellite technology aligns with the government’s push for technological advancement and economic growth.
“DTI is committed to sustaining an investment-friendly environment for emerging technologies. By addressing regulatory barriers, we aim to accelerate digital transformation and expand high-speed internet access across the country,” Roque said.